3D Printed Stepper Motor V1.1

PROJECT BY

Presented By:Anthony Garofalo

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ABOUT THIS PROJECT

Tell us briefly about your project. Is it a work of art or does it serve another
function?

I designed this stepper motor with eight electromagnets, six neodymium magnets, with a 3d printed rotor and stator housing. This is specifically a permanent magnet stepper motor capable of 15 degree full steps and 7.5 degree half steps. There are many different types of stepper motors but most of them work very similar to the one I have designed here. This is an educational display to show others how stepper motors work. I designed this to run on a 5-12VDC power supply so it will work with most USB power supplies.

When did you start working on this project and how long did it take you to complete?

I got the idea to make it on August 10th and it took 4 days to design it, 3d print the parts, write the program, and assemble everything.

What was your goal in building this project?

The goal was to make a functional model to be used as an educational tool.

Does your project help to solve a problem? If so what problem?

I am a visual learner and I feel working models like this really help students grasp concepts faster. I have already had multiple teachers and professor contact me saying they will make one to teach their students. I am almost done with Version 2 which I am really excited about. It is an Axial Flux stepper motor. Most people have never heard of them so I think it will make a great educational model as well.

What makes your idea unique?

It is the only open source stepper motor model that you can make yourself. I have released all of the 3d parts files, source code, schematics and made a complete step by step guide for making your own. See the video description for a link to the step by step guide.

In what capacity are you using bearings and what type of bearings?

I am using a ZZ608 skate bearing in the stator of my motor.

What is the most important thing you want people to know about your project?

There are many ways to make this motor better and more efficient. The goal of this motor wasn't to make the most efficient motor. It was to make an educational model that can be made with easily accessible parts and supplies.

How will you use the $5,000 prize?

I would use the prize money to purchase more tools and parts for open source projects. I would love to add a laser cutter to my lab to make more educational models that I can donate to local schools and science teachers. I have a passion for making things and teaching others. The $5,000 prize would help me do what I love.